ESFRI Position Paper on Framework Program 10

European Research Infrastructures (RIs) encompass infrastructures for research and innovation that bolster European Union (EU) competitiveness and advance the European Research Area (ERA) by

• producing excellent research and innovation,
• driving industrial competitiveness,
• contributing to job creation, economic growth and (strategic) open autonomy,
• enhancing the welfare and wellbeing of EU citizens,
• serve as vital sources of data and expertise that inform policymaking and tackle complex societal challenges.

Moreover, they play a crucial role in supporting collaborative research, are strong magnets for talent, and bolster Europe’s scientific influence and sovereignty. RIs are at the core of the knowledge triangle of research, education and innovation, and therefore play a vital role in advancement of knowledge, the promotion of open science, and the efficiency of the research and innovation environment.

To tap into its full potential RIs must be seen and enhanced as strategic assets in policy making and across borders of sectoral domains to contribute to the European strategic agenda and the full realisation of the European Research Area. Therefore, RIs should be considered not only as a cross-cutting element of the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (FP10) but of the entire EU endeavour.

The European Strategy Forum on Research Infrastructures (ESFRI) was established as a central platform for strategic thinking and collaboration in policies on research infrastructures, contributing to Europe's competitiveness in the global scientific landscape. In line with ESFRI´s mandate, we present our view on some of the strategic aspects that FP10 should include.